challenged

American  

[chal-injd] / ˈtʃæl ɪndʒd /

adjective

1. Often Offensive. a euphemism for disabled (usually preceded by an adverb).

2. deficient or lacking (usually preceded by an adverb or noun and used facetiously).

   ethically challenged; math-challenged.

---

challenged British  

/ ˈtʃælɪndʒd /

adjective

1. (in combination) disabled or disadvantaged in some way

   physically challenged performers

---

Sensitive Note

See disabled.

Other Word Forms

• unchallenged adjective

Etymology

Origin of challenged

An Americanism dating back to 1980–85; challenge ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Adamolekun said earlier this year that sales are returning, but remain challenged.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

Surveillance cameras and license plate readers are commonly used by investigators and have rarely been challenged.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

As expected, the manufacturers of the two drugs also challenged the findings, and their investors appeared unconcerned.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

In their day, Dylan and The Beatles challenged each other not only to eschew taking their own inherent greatness for granted, but to accept the risks that being a true artist demands.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

The principal is so shocked at being challenged by his own seventh-grade president that he backs away from her, stepping on my foot.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman

Related Words

• debated